On January 24, 2025, Representative Anna Paulina Luna from Florida announced her plan to introduce legislation that would honor former President Donald Trump by adding his face to Mount Rushmore. This proposal has sparked heated discussions online, with opinions both for and against the idea.
Why Mount Rushmore?
Mount Rushmore, located in South Dakota, features the faces of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. These figures were chosen to represent key moments in America’s history. Rep. Luna believes Trump’s presidency had a “significant influence” and deserves similar recognition.
Background: Past Talk of Trump on Mount Rushmore
The idea of adding Trump to Mount Rushmore isn’t new. Back in 2020, reports suggested that a White House aide had asked about the process of adding another face to the monument. Around the same time, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem gave Trump a replica of Mount Rushmore that included his face. However, officials have stated that there’s no space or suitable rock on the mountain to accommodate another carving. The original artist’s vision for the sculpture also didn’t include room for future additions.
Online Reactions
Rep. Luna’s announcement reignited the debate, leading to a flood of reactions on X (formerly Twitter). While some users voiced strong support, others criticized the idea, citing more pressing issues like inflation and rising grocery prices.
Supporters argue that Trump’s presidency reshaped American politics and deserves to be remembered.
Critics see this as a distraction from real problems, questioning the relevance of such a proposal in today’s economic climate.
Challenges and Feasibility
Physically adding another face to Mount Rushmore is highly unlikely. Experts have confirmed that the mountain lacks carvable rock for additional faces. On top of that, the legislative process for such a proposal would require significant political backing and funding, which could be difficult given the polarized public opinion.
What Does This Debate Reflect?
The renewed discussion around Trump and Mount Rushmore highlights deep divisions in American politics. For supporters, it’s about celebrating his legacy. For opponents, it raises concerns about prioritizing symbolic gestures over practical solutions to current challenges.
History of Mount Rushmore
Origins and Idea
In the early 1900s, South Dakota historian Doane Robinson suggested building a monument in the Black Hills to attract tourists. He initially thought of honoring Western heroes but later shifted to national figures. Sculptor Gutzon Borglum was hired in 1924 and proposed carving four U.S. presidents to represent the first 150 years of America’s history.
Construction
Start Date: Work began in 1927.
Chosen Presidents:
George Washington: Birth of the nation.
Thomas Jefferson: Expansion through the Louisiana Purchase.
Theodore Roosevelt: Conservation and national growth.
Abraham Lincoln: Preserved the Union and ended slavery.
Carving Techniques: Dynamite removed large rock portions, followed by chisels for details. Borglum’s son, Lincoln, took over as his father’s health declined.
Completion: Officially finished in 1941, though some parts, like the Hall of Records, were never completed due to WWII and funding shortages.
After Construction
Preservation: The National Park Service manages the site, offering education and maintenance.
Modern Significance: Mount Rushmore represents U.S. history and leadership, attracting millions of visitors every year.
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